Ipswich's policing commander has said she is "extremely proud" of the operation launched to tackle violence and anti-social behaviour in the town - often involving young people.

Supt Kerry Cutler’s comments come after this newspaper reported Suffolk Constabulary’s Operation Woven had made more than 100 arrests in 12 weeks, since its launch in March.

The operation, aimed to deter and disrupt crime and anti-social behaviour connected to a group of people known to each other, much of it drug related, is now set to continue until the end of August.

“I am extremely proud of the progress of Operation Woven and the impact the team have made in tackling violence and ASB in Ipswich,” Supt Cutler said. “The officers are exceptionally dedicated, often working extended shifts or coming in on rest days to process the arrests they have made as they want to make a difference.”

The teams were first deployed on March 13 and have made 105 arrests since. Most of these have been connected with drug dealing and have resulted in around a quarter being charged, with many more released under investigation as enquiries continue.

Large quantities of drugs and cash as well as weapons, have been seized. Properties linked to drug dealing have been subject to closure orders and people given Criminal Behaviour Orders.

Supt Cutler praised the work of police teams, intelligence officers and custody staff as well as partner agencies including Ipswich Borough Council, Suffolk County Council and Youth Offending Service; along with rehabilitation organisations such as Catch 22, The Recovery Hub, Turning Point and St Giles Trust.

“This truly has been a team effort,” she said. “Drugs are a cancer that can lead to addiction, debt and violence which many people struggle to break free from, and only through education and the chance of better opportunities can we hope to prevent people from falling into this lifestyle.”

Recent successes include arrests made after operations in London Road, Clarkson Street, Gippeswyk Park, Foxhall Road and Upper Orwell Street. Suspected drug dealing has been witnessed, properties raided and large amount of drugs and cash seized.

People from the town, as well as from London, have been arrested in connection with drugs offences, relating to crack, heroin, and the cultivation of cannabis.